Introduction:

   Memory is an integral part of any system, and its performance can greatly affect the overall performance of the system. Working with the CPU, the memory must be able to run fast and at low latencies in order to provide the best performance; as such, no enthusiast will want to pair generic memory modules with a great CPU, an action which would not only drag down the CPU's performance but overall system performance.

   OCZ Technology has for some time been providing high-quality memory modules specifically designed for Dual- Channel performance, which most systems will need. Besides this, they come with other nice features such as heat spreaders (which also make installation easier), Extended Voltage Protection and a lifetime warranty. Today, I'll be looking at their PC-3500 Gold Gamer eXtreme Edition, in the form of a 1GB (2 x 512MB) Dual-Channel kit.

Specifications:

   This unbuffered memory is rated to run at 433MHz (DDR) with CL settings of 2-2-2-5 (CAS-TRCD-TRP-TRAS). It comes covered in a copper heat-spreader that is gold-layered (hence the name) and also comes with an OCZ features called Extended Voltage Protection, or EVP. What is EVP? From OCZ Technology site:

"... EVP® (Extended Voltage Protection) coverage, a feature allowing performance enthusiasts to tweak their systems up to a VDIMM of 3.1V ± 5% without invalidating their OCZ Lifetime Warranty! "

   Basically, this should allow you to maximize your performance while still staying within the warranty. The Dual-Channel kit ensures that the memory sticks are matched and each will be able to run at the settings of the other. Though PC3200 may be enough for most systems (which is equivalent to a 200MHz FSB and synchronous memory speeds), PC3500 allows for some head room, as it's guaranteed to run at 217MHz with the specified CL settings. For more specs, please visit OCZ's site.

The OCZ PC 3500 Gold GX  1GB Dual Channel Kit.

Nice gold-plated heat-spreaders.

Timings.

   The dual-channel kit comes nicely packaged so that you can see the good-looking RAM modules within. Not only has OCZ Technology strived to make the RAM of high-quality, but they've also made them look decent with thick, gold-plated heat-spreaders on each unit. These feature the OCZ logo and will nicely complement the insides of your case should you have a window and lighted setup inside. One downside to the nice, shiny finish on the heat-spreaders is that they will easily show smudges or fingerprints that will inevitably fall on them.

   The kit consists of a matched pair of DIMMs, totally 1GB in capacity. (2 x 512MB) This makes it great for the dual-channel systems that dominate the performance marketplace. For those looking to tweak and get the most performance out of their systems, this memory shouldn't disappoint since it's guaranteed to work at 217MHz (433MHz DDR) with timings of 2-2-2-5 at 2.8V.